Page 234 - 87-BOOK2

This highly ornate Ames militia officer’s presentation grade sword
was inscribed and presented to future Confederate General Paul J. Semmes (1815-1863) in 1854. The sword scabbard has two inscriptions: “Testimonial of Esteem/the Columbus Guards/TO/Capt. Paul J. Semmes/ July 1854” and on the reverse “Presented in behalf of the/Corps by John A. Johnson. This honor/having been awarded him as the best/shot in the Company at Target practice/June 14th 1854.” This elegant sword is
232 topped with a beautifully cast and detailed, full dimension bronze eagle
on its pommel, with original rough-cut diamonds set into the eyes. The rest of the hilt is composed of a most impressively sculpted cross-guard exhibiting leaf, broad twist and scroll motifs, fancy sculpted counter guard with a bold and distinctive applied eagle with shield decoration, floral and cross hatch patterns engraved on its hexagonal grip. The
hilt is all silver plated and bowed with a double link chain. The overall length of the sword is 37 3⁄4 inches. The 31 1⁄2 inch blade features near full etched coverage floral scroll and military/patriotic motifs and has
the maker’s mark “Ames Mfg. Co./Chicopee/Mass.” Besides the noted engraved inscriptions, the heavily silver plated scabbard features deluxe applied mounts of military/patriotic decorations with sculpted carrying rings secured by a set of screws on the reverse, and raised floral scroll decoration. The drag has similar floral scroll appointments. The area below the lower carrying ring is engraved with floral scrolls and a mighty eagle. “Made by/AMES Mfg Co/Chicopee/Mass” is marked near the throat.
laying it across his arm, he again asked for his Testament...
he took it - and with it in his hand expired.”
- reported to General Semmes' wife by Mary Ogden
"A few moments before the General died, he asked for his sword,